AMUSEMENTS

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume LX, Issue 18181, 31 August 1933, Page 5

AMUSEMENTS

REGENT THEATRE After sbeing “A Successful Calamity last night one must voice the general verdict, a thoroughly delightful picture. George Arliss, one of the great intellectuals of the screen, is never happier when employed in the genial gpme oi “spoof,” and this is so artfully conceived that the audience is kept m a simmer of laughter at his merry intrigue Proof that he is: not only one oi tiie greatest, but also the most popular of motion picture stars was liberally provided last night by the public s appreciation of the film. In “A Successful Calamity" he brings his great talent and unique personality to bear on the character of an American financier, who pretends ruin in order to enjoy a quiet life. The result is, of course, a film which, though lighter-than any in which Mr. Arliss has previously appeared, affords entertainment of an extraordinarily high qrder. In fact it may rightly be classed, as a classic of the screen and a worthy successor to„ all other Arliss triumphs. “A Successful Calamity” cannot be compared with any previous Arliss film, for the plot is worthy of its principal figure and has originality. George Arliss virtually becomes the part he is playing. Those who listen frequently to the Los Angles broadcasting station KFI wil be glad to hear that Nola Luxfbrd, who has been heard on several occasions, also appeal's in ‘*A Successful Calamity.” Miss Luxford is a New Zealand girl, having lived the early part of her life in the North Island.

MAJESTIC THEATRE The story of “Rain,” dealing with, certain aspects of life in the tropics,, is well known, but the theme is fascin'■ating. The monotony of a steady downpour of rain, and its effect -upon people in -a certain environment, is cleverly suggested. The setting is a background for a parade of human emotions. The reformer’s condemnation of iSadie, his show of almost brutal power in an outpost of civilisation, and the climax, where the re- - former is shown to be very like other .men, ridden by human impulse, are all things lifted- above the ordinary. There is no deliberate effort on the part of the director, Lewis Milestone, to force the colorful atmosphere of the South Seas upon the audience in an attempt to give the acting an exaggerated glamor. “Rain ”is a compelling film, and- the sincerity of its production is marked. Joan Crawford as Sadie Thompson and Walter Huston as the reformer fill their roles convincingly, fho supporting programme includes a ‘ 1 Micky Mouse ” cartoon.

Dancing enthusiasts will welcome ■the .announeejnent of the Patutahi Football Club’s dance at Patutahi on Thursday, September 7. The committee has made careful arrangements for Jhe function, which should Ibo one-of the most successful country dances of the soason. Town and Te Karaka patrons 'will be catered' for by buses,- as Usual.